CNBCยท2025-05-12 15:49Core Insights - General Motors (GM) has appointed Sterling Anderson, a former Tesla executive and cofounder of Aurora Innovation, as its chief product officer to oversee the product lifecycle for both gas and electric vehicles [1][2][3] - Anderson will report to GM President Mark Reuss and is part of a trend of ex-Tesla executives joining GM to enhance its technology and electric vehicle offerings [2][3] - GM aims to balance the rollout of electric vehicles (EVs) with gas-powered models while advancing technologies like the Super Cruise driver-assistance system to compete with Tesla and emerging Chinese auto startups [3] Group 1 - Sterling Anderson will start his role at GM on June 2, overseeing hardware, software, services, and user experience for vehicles [1][2] - Anderson's previous experience includes leading teams for the Model X SUV and Tesla's Autopilot system [5] - GM's CEO Mary Barra emphasized that Anderson will help accelerate progress in creating high-performing, technology-forward vehicles [4] Group 2 - GM has previously hired other former Tesla executives, including Kurt Kelty for battery leadership and Jon McNeill for board membership, indicating a strategic move to leverage talent from Tesla [2][3] - The company is focused on competing against Tesla, the leader in EVs and software, as well as new entrants from China [3] - Anderson's leadership is expected to enhance GM's capabilities in automotive engineering and software innovation [3][4]